* Material colours may vary depending on availability.
Any of the lightweight pods (Kortel Kolibri, Advance LIGHTNESS 2, Skywalk RANGE AIR, Supair XA13) will fit in easily. I found the design well-considered: I could squeeze my harness into the bag and zip it up part way, then close the lower compression strap before squashing my harness further down into the pack without risking a burst zipper.
Bivi pilots will appreciate the volume – when compared to another ’80 litre’ bag, I had extra space available for lots of food and some clothing. I tested it with the same full kit used for a week-long bivi in the Alps. The standard Kolibri backpack is already well suited for travellers, and if you add the topper (available soon) there’s ample space for extreme adventuring.
A minor omission is the lack of any handle to pick up the bag, but this is to minimise weight – it is possible to lift it with both shoulder straps held together (to avoid straining one side).
Once settled, it carries very well and the straps were simple to adjust. The waist strap is particularly functional, easy to fine-tune on both sides to transfer the load to your hips. I found all the loops and pockets to be perfectly positioned – clear evidence of trail testing by the Kortel team. I jogged along for a mile or so and once all the straps were jammed down tightly the weight seemed to become a part of me, apart from the top load which flapped about.
There are added design flairs everywhere on this bag. A waterproof yellow panel inside the back to prevent your sweat reaching the glider. A discrete hook and loop fastener pouch for the raincover. Hang loops for heavy hands.
With intelligent use, I’m confident this bag will last many years of regular XC flying. If I was going on a bivi, I wouldn’t leave home without a Kolibri backpack.
Comfortable, versatile, durable and light – it’s a winner!
- Flybubble (full review)
